What is the purpose of this project?
Construction of the interchange is anticipated to start in May 2023. Work includes:
- Reconfiguration of existing interchange ramps at I-95 and SR 896
- Widening of I-95 northbound and southbound (1 mile) for new ramp acceleration/deceleration lanes
- Includes widening of three (3) mainline I-95 bridges for new ramps
- Construction of six (6) new bridges
- Construction of ten (10) retaining walls
- New highway sign structures
- New highway lighting and Intelligent Traffic Management Systems (ITMS) infrastructure
- Rehabilitation work for existing bridges on I-95 and SR 896
- Multi-Use Trail connecting Newark to Glasgow
Why is the project needed?
The focus of this project is to decrease the amount, frequency, and severity of crashes. An initial study from February 2017 through February 2020 showed 527 reported crashes including 2 fatalities, which equates to approximately 1 crash every other day in this interchange. The reconfiguration of this interchange will improve the I-95 traffic (Limit of Service) affected by merging and diverging through and entering/exiting traffic. The primary objective of this project is to improve the safety and traffic operations of the I-95 and SR 896 interchange in order to maintain mobility for local and through traffic, while not adversely affecting the operational performance of the I-95 Newark Toll Plaza.
Will I-95 be closed?
I-95 will remain open for the duration of the project, with the exception of limited overnight closures and unplanned traffic accidents. It is unsafe for vehicles to proceed through the work zone with heavy equipment setting bridge girders and overhead signs, however, the goal is to minimize impacts to the traveling public as much as possible, therefore the contractor will be restricted to working hours and penalized if those hours are exceeded.
Will there be any long term ramp closures?
Yes. The I-95 northbound to SR 896 southbound/northbound ramp will be closed for the majority of project construction. Also, the SR 896 southbound and northbound ramps to I-95 southbound will be closed for a long duration during construction. There is a low volume of vehicles utilizing these ramps and there will be a detour in place.
Will there be detours posted?
Detour routes will be posted for all planned closures or major impacts to traffic with advanced public outreach performed to alert motorists in advance of the closure. I-95 will remain open for the duration of the project, with the exception of limited overnight closures, and unplanned traffic accidents.
How long will construction last?
Construction will begin in May 2023 and is expected to end in July 2025.
Will there be night work, weekend work?
There will likely be both night and weekend work during certain periods of construction depending upon the contractor’s schedule and how the project is progressing. Contractors will coordinate their activities with DelDOT and the City of Newark and will obtain Noise Waivers when appropriate. The goal is to minimize impacts to residents as much as possible.
Is there an ongoing public outreach/education plan?
Yes. DelDOT will periodically hold public meetings and will provide project updates via social media, email and the project website. The public can also sign up to receive text messages or email alerts via this website.